Stunned Billingham Synthonia have been left devastated by the sudden death of goalkeeper Steve Tierney.

The player died on Thursday night - just two days after being diagnosed as suffering from leukaemia.

"The entire club is in shock," said manager Stuart Coleby.

"We only told the players on Thursday about his condition and then the next day they are told that he is dead. Everyone is naturally devastated.

"He hadn't been at the club long and he isn't a local lad but he had made a dramatic immediate impact.

"Steve was a larger than life character, a real joker and very popular.

"He was also a superb keeper, widely acknowledged as one of the best in the league.

"Obviously our thoughts go out first and foremost to his wife and two young children. He is not even 30. It is a devastating loss.

"We have called our game at Whitley Bay off today. There is no way we could play. All the lads are deeply upset."

The keeper - one of the most popular and recognisable figures in the Northern League - signed for Synners in the summer after spells with Horden and Spennymoor.

But he had struggled with his fitness in pre-season training and complained of flu symptoms then developed a chest infection which had prevented him making his debut.

The problems developed rapidly and check-ups for suspected pneumonia on Tuesday revealed the shock news that Steve had leukaemia. He was rushed to the University Hospital of North Tees in Stockton to begin immediate chemotherapy.

But he deteriorated rapidly and died on Thursday night.

It is deeply felt blow for Synners because they have already twice faced emotional traumas over deaths from the blood condition.

Dynamic midfielder Paul Roberts died at the age of 29 in February 2002 after a brave two-year battle then stalwart supporter and fanatical fundraiser Alex Cushley succumbed, after a long illness, in January 2005.

"As a club we know too much about this disease," said Stuart. "This is a tragedy for us but more so for his family."